This is an incredible value if you are looking for a simple, all steel tool box that is still made in the USA. The tool box’s interior is undivided except for the accessory tray that sits on top.

The tray is plastic, though it seems sturdy enough. Somewhat surprisingly, even the tray is made in the USA. The tool box’s handle is metal, though it is hollow. Despite being hollow, the handle seems strong enough. In fact, the handle alone might be reason enough to buy this tool box. Nearly every other small tool box available has resorted to using plastic handles which are much more likely to slip out when carrying a heavy load of tools. Unfortunately, that’s also exactly when you can least afford to have the handle slip out. This handle is all metal, and is attached to the lid with strong welds. As noted, the hinge is a full length, piano type.

It’s hard to tell this from the pictures, but the latch is the double compound type. Echoing my concerns about plastic handles breaking, a simple latch can be accidentally caught open on a pants leg, and cause you to drop all of your tools. A double compound latch has a retaining loop, so even if the latch is accidentally opened, the lid will only open a quarter of an inch or so, giving you a chance to properly latch the tool box again. A simple latch would just fly open, and drop all of your tools on the ground. This is a simple idea, but so few manufacturers are willing to pay the extra few cents for a far superior latch. I applaud Stack On for still making decisions based on quality rather than balance sheets.

This is a very nice toolbox for the price. As others have stated the handle is metal and riveted to the lid, the hinge extends for the length of the box, and the tray is made of high-quality plastic. In addition there is a small loop in the clasp that allows you to lock the box with a small padlock (sort of like a suitcase). Finally, if you’re concerned, the label is only a sticker that peels off easily and cleanly.

I could see this box going for $45 at a hardware store with a brand-name on it. Definitely worth the money.